ICA: Satire of Modern Life Assignment

Though they are often related, satire differs from comedy in purpose. The purpose of comedy is laughter. The purpose of satire is to make a case for change. (i.e. It may be funny, but perhaps it really isn't or shouldn't be.)

1. Open the pdf "Satirical Illustrations about Modern World. Download Satirical Illustrations about Modern World.

2. The document contains illustrations created by Polish artist Pawel Kuczynski.  Each image offers some kind of satiric commentary about aspects of our current lives. Scan the illustrations and consider what, exactly, is being targeted in each.

3. Choose THREE of the images and answer the questions below for each you choose. Be sure to identify the images you choose (e.g. Image # 4, Image # 12, etc. as part of each response.  You should answer the three questions below in paragraph form (meaning you'll have three paragraphs total when you're done, one for each image). The images are identified with comment sticky notes in the PDF (small yellow icons).

     a. What is the artist targeting (i.e. criticizing or making fun of) in the image? Consider that there may well be more than one target.

     b. What is the criticism the image offers (i.e. what's the satiric point Kuczynski is making) and why do you suppose the criticism seems valid?

     c. What change(s) does the the image suggest ought to occur?

Submit your work within the amount of time allowed in class today.  If this amount of time is insufficient, you must complete the assignment prior to the beginning of next class (this will not show up on your homework calendar).  If you are absent, you must complete the assignment within school guidelines.